Crispy Spicy Chicken Tenders
These Crispy Spicy Chicken Tenders are a sensational snack or lunch option that packs a punch with flavor. Made with tender chicken breasts and coated in a crunchy layer of spicy tortilla chips, they're perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce. Whether you enjoy them with a creamy blue cheese dip, zesty ranch dressing, or a fresh salsa, these tenders are sure to please your taste buds. Ideal for parties, game days, or a cozy lunch at home, you can also swap in boneless chicken thighs for a juicier treat. Get ready for a delightful crunch and a spicy kick!
4
Servings
200
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
chicken breasts
4 (cut into finger-width strips and halved lengthwise if necessary)
spicy tortilla chips
9-10 ounces (crushed into coarse crumbs)
seasoned flour
3 tablespoons (for coating)
eggs
2 (beaten)
oil
for frying (sufficient for frying)
Instructions
1
Begin by placing the spicy tortilla chips into a plastic bag and use a rolling pin to crush them into coarse crumbs. Transfer the crumbs to a shallow bowl.
2
Prepare three separate shallow dishes: one with seasoned flour, one with the beaten eggs, and the third with the crushed tortilla chips.
3
Taking one chicken strip at a time, coat it first in the seasoned flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
4
Finally, roll the chicken strip in the crushed tortilla chips, ensuring an even coating. Repeat until all chicken strips are coated.
5
Place the coated chicken tenders on a tray and chill them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to help the coating adhere.
6
In a non-stick frying pan, heat oil over medium heat until hot. Carefully add the chicken tenders in batches, being cautious not to overcrowd the pan.
7
Fry the chicken tenders for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown, crisp, and cooked through. If needed, adjust the heat to prevent burning.
8
Once cooked, transfer the tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. If frying in batches, keep the first batches warm in the oven on low heat.
9
Serve hot with your choice of dip, such as blue cheese dressing, ranch, or a fresh salsa.
Nutrition Information
11g
Fat
12.5g
Carbs
12.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crispy Spicy Chicken Tenders?
These are chicken breast strips coated in crushed spicy tortilla chips and fried until golden and crunchy.
What cut of chicken is best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for chicken breasts cut into finger-width strips, but you can use boneless chicken thighs for a juicier option.
How do I crush the spicy tortilla chips?
Place the chips in a plastic bag and use a rolling pin to crush them into coarse crumbs.
Why do I need to chill the chicken for 30 minutes?
Chilling the coated chicken tenders helps the tortilla chip crust adhere better so it doesn't fall off during frying.
How long do I fry the chicken tenders?
Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through.
What is the serving size for this recipe?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What dipping sauces pair well with spicy chicken tenders?
Popular options include blue cheese dressing, ranch dressing, or a fresh salsa.
How many calories are in a serving?
Each serving contains approximately 200 calories.
What is the protein content of these chicken tenders?
There are 12.5 grams of protein per serving.
How much fat is in this dish?
Each serving contains 11 grams of fat.
What are the three steps for breading the chicken?
First coat in seasoned flour, then dip in beaten eggs, and finally roll in crushed tortilla chips.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be swapped in if you prefer a juicier texture.
How many eggs are needed for the breading process?
The recipe requires 2 beaten eggs.
How many ounces of tortilla chips are required?
You will need between 9 and 10 ounces of spicy tortilla chips.
How much flour is used for the coating?
Use 3 tablespoons of seasoned flour.
What type of heat should I use for frying?
Use medium heat to ensure the chicken cooks through without burning the chip coating.
How do I remove excess oil after frying?
Transfer the cooked tenders to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any extra oil.
How can I keep the first batch warm while frying the rest?
You can keep finished batches warm in the oven on a low heat setting.
Is there sugar in this recipe?
Based on the nutritional data provided, the sugar content is negligible or not listed.
What is the carbohydrate count per serving?
There are 12.5 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Should the tortilla chips be crushed finely?
The recipe recommends crushing them into coarse crumbs for the best texture.
Can these be served as an appetizer?
Yes, they are perfect as a finger food, snack, or appetizer for parties and game days.
What should I do if the chicken tenders are browning too fast?
Adjust the heat to a lower setting to prevent the tortilla chips from burning.
How many chicken breasts are used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 4 chicken breasts cut into strips.
Is the chicken seasoned before coating?
The recipe uses seasoned flour as the first step in the coating process.
Why is it important not to overcrowd the pan?
Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, which can make the tenders greasy rather than crispy.
What is the total ingredient count?
There are 5 main ingredients: chicken, chips, flour, eggs, and oil.
Can I use regular tortilla chips instead of spicy ones?
Yes, you can use regular chips if you prefer a milder flavor profile.
How wide should the chicken strips be?
The chicken breasts should be cut into finger-width strips.
Is this a good lunch option?
Yes, it is described as a sensational lunch option or a cozy meal at home.